What is a vehicle identification number (VIN)?

A vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit code that's unique to an individual car. It's not the same as a car's registration plate – instead, the VIN code is stamped on the chassis and/or windscreen. A car's VIN can be used for vehicle registration, to obtain information about the car and to check its identity – which lets you check whether the car's been stolen, written off or imported.